5 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches in Oklahoma

Oklahoma may not be an oceanfront state, but it still offers plenty of wonderful beaches that your pet is sure to love. From dog-friendly parks in Edmond to miles of wild shoreline on Hugo Lake, there are an abundance of places to explore with your favorite four-legged friend. Plan a great getaway by booking an Oklahoma vacation rental near one of these dog-friendly beaches.

Source: Flickr/Petras Gagilas

1. Bickham-Rudkin Park, Edmond

Located in Edmond, Bickham-Rudkin Park is a great place to bring your dog year round. The dog park area is fenced, making it easy to let your pooch run free, and it includes access to a gorgeous pond for water play. Swimming is allowed so wade in and enjoy splashing around with your best buddy. With convenient free parking, and restrooms and water fountains for both you and your pet right in the dog park, you’re going to want to stay awhile, and with four dog-friendly acres, it’s the perfect opportunity for your canine friend to enjoy some freedom. Outside of the fenced area, Bickham-Rudkin Park includes 49 acres of multi-use trails for you and your pet to explore; just be sure to keep your pooch on his leash when he is not in the fenced area. Book a vacation rental in Edmond for a weekend getaway with your pet, and while you’re there, check out the trails around Acadia Lake too plus the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

2. Paw Park, Oklahoma City

If your dog just can’t get enough of water, book a pet-friendly vacation rental in Oklahoma City and head for Paw Park. This dog park has separate areas for dogs over and under 30 pounds, making it a great choice for anxious little dogs. Both areas have plenty of beach space on Duck Pond. Enjoy running together on the fine-grade gravel beach, which is maintained with dogs’ needs in mind, or sit back on the many available benches and watch your dog romp with his new friends. Rehydrate at the in-park watering station, and of course, make sure your dog gets his fill of romping through the water. Children under 10 are not allowed at Paw Park, and there is a two-dog per adult rule. Swimming by humans is discouraged although wading is allowed. The park is open year round, but colder weather in December and January may make the beach area unusable.

3. Fred Quinn Happy Tails Dog Park, Midwest City

Midwest City is a beautiful place to experience the best of the Midwest, and Fred Quinn Happy Tails Dog Park right in town ensures your best buddy has a great vacation too. This canine-friendly space has three roomy areas to explore, including a manmade pond where your dog can splash to his heart’s content. Play frisbee in the large, grassy fields, let your dog romp over the grassy mounds, or take a leisurely stroll together along the dry creek bed. This dog park is beautiful as well as fun with large shade trees and a well-maintained natural environment. Free waste-disposal bags and plenty of trash receptacles help keep the park clean. While in Midwest City, be sure to head to Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom for pet-friendly dining. In addition to a seasonal selection of craft beers, Old Chicago offers authentic Chicago-style, deep-dish pizza, or opt for its famous steak and beer-cheese pie.

4. Sutton Wildlife Greenbelt, Norman

Nature lovers are sure to enjoy exploring Sutton Wildlife Greenbelt with their four-footed friends. Small and older dogs have their own separate area away from more rambunctious, larger pets, and the park offers rinse and watering stations as well as shady benches for relaxing. Of course, the beach area along the pond is sure to be your water-loving dog’s favorite place to hang out. Practice retrieving, or simply enjoy cooling off in the water on a hot day. Swimming isn’t allowed, but roll up your pants and wade along side your canine friend to enjoy the cool water. This urban wilderness is located right near the center of Norman and is open to dogs year round. Book a dog-friendly vacation rental in town, and enjoy a walking tour of the city center’s many historic buildings together with your pet. Many of the downtown restaurants offer pet-friendly outdoor seating. If you prefer to eat indoors, Interurban welcomes your well-behaved pet, and offers a versatile menu, including house favorites, such as aged ribeye steak and bacon-wrapped Cajun shrimp.

5. Hugo Lake State Park, Sawyer

Hugo Lake State Park offers more than 100 miles of shoreline for you and your pet to explore. Although it’s fine to take your well-behaved dog off leash to play in the water, be sure to put the leash back on when hiking through the park, or when children or other dogs approach. If you love to fish, Hugo Lake’s well-stocked waters are perfect for trying to catch that big one, and the onsite marina sells fishing licenses in season. Hugo Lake State Park is open year round and has a swimming beach, picnic areas with grills, playgrounds, and boat rentals. Extend your getaway to a full week with a rural vacation rental in nearby Hugo, Sawyer, or Fallon.